Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Atalanta in Bergamo. Despite the lack of goals, the match was filled with notable performances, particularly from the defensive unit.
Here’s a breakdown of how each player fared:
David Raya – 8/10
The standout performer of the night. Raya was instrumental in securing the draw, making a crucial double save from Mateo Retegui’s penalty and the subsequent rebound. His heroics ensured Arsenal left Italy with a valuable point.
Ben White – 6/10
Solid and dependable at the back. White did well to limit the influence of Atalanta’s attackers, particularly Ademola Lookman. His positioning and tackling were on point, contributing to a strong defensive display.
William Saliba – 7/10
Saliba was composed and assured in defense. He read the game well and made several important interceptions to keep Atalanta at bay.
Gabriel Magalhães – 7/10
Gabriel was a rock at the heart of the defense. His physical presence and aerial ability were crucial in dealing with Atalanta’s set-pieces and crosses.
Jurrien Timber – 6/10 –
A strong performance by Arsenal’s versatile player at left-back, causing De Ketelaere frustration.
Thomas Partey – 6/10
Partey had a challenging night, giving away the penalty that could have cost Arsenal dearly. However, he worked hard to regain control in midfield and provided a shield for the defense.
Declan Rice – 6/10
Rice was industrious and disciplined in midfield. He broke up play effectively and distributed the ball well, helping Arsenal maintain their shape.
Bukayo Saka – 6/10
Saka showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to make a significant impact. His set-piece delivery was a threat, but he couldn’t find the breakthrough.
Kai Havertz – 5/10 – Stepped into midfield and was involved in plenty of duels with mixed levels of success. Couldn’t replicate the attacking dynamism that Arsenal missed in Martin Odegaard’s absence.
Gabriel Martinelli – 5/10
Martinelli had a night to forget. He missed a golden opportunity to score late in the game and struggled to impose himself on the match.
Gabriel Jesus (5/10): He was pressed and harassed throughout his 58 minutes on the pitch, but he lacked the brilliant close control and elegance to which we have been used. Created three chances for teammates, though.
Substitutes
Raheem Sterling – 6/10
Came on and provided a spark with his pace and creativity. Set up Martinelli for a great chance that went begging⁴.
Jorginho – 6/10
Certainly outperformed the man he replaced and kept things moving in the middle of the pitch.
SUB: Leandro Trossard – 6/10
Things improved quickly, but failed to capitalise on a strong start.
Riccardo Calafiori – 6/10
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings